Maxillipeds

appendages of the first three front thoracic segments in crustaceans. They are used for catching and breaking up food and for feeling and tasting; they are frequently also used for breathing and for ventilating the branchial cavities. In structure the maxillipeds resemble the lower jaws (maxillae) and the walking legs. In chilopods the clawlike legs of the first segment of the body are called maxillipeds.